The sporting community in Kenya has been plunged into mourning following the untimely demise of volleyball icon Janet Wanja, who passed away after a courageous battle with gallbladder cancer.
Her family confirmed the tragic news through her brother, Kevin Kimani.
“It is with heavy hearts that the family of Janet Wanja announces her passing after a brave battle with cancer,” Kimani stated during an interview with a local radio station. “Our sincere gratitude goes to Kenya Pipeline Company for standing by us through this journey. Special thanks to our friends, the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF), the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK), and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) for their unwavering support.”
Kimani noted that further updates would be provided in due course.
Wanja’s health began to decline in August, shortly after her return from the Paris Olympics, where she served as the Malkia Strikers’ fitness trainer.
A towering figure in Kenyan volleyball, Wanja proudly represented the country at the 2004 Olympics in Athens and was instrumental in Malkia Strikers’ victory at the 2007 Women’s African Volleyball Championship. Her illustrious career earned her numerous accolades and left an indelible mark on the sport.
The news of her passing has elicited heartfelt condolences from across the sporting world.
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga paid tribute, saying, “Gone too soon, champ. Your contribution to volleyball in Kenya and the sports industry at large was immense and will never go unnoticed. Rest in peace, legend. My thoughts are with her family during this difficult time.”
Musician Daddy Owen also mourned her loss, saying, “I am deeply saddened by the loss of another cherished friend. Janet Wanja will forever be remembered as an exceptional and flamboyant volleyball player whose legacy shines brightly in the history of Kenyan sports. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends, especially her brother Kimani. Rest easy, Wanja. You were truly one of a kind.”
Wanja’s passing comes just days after former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama visited her family to offer support, accompanied by FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga, former national team coach Francis Kimanzi, and several former teammates.
During the visit, Wanyama expressed his hopes for Wanja’s recovery, saying, “We are all praying for her and wishing her a quick recovery.”
The nation mourns a legend whose contributions to Kenyan volleyball and the broader sporting landscape will forever be remembered.
